Lot 19 – A HAN DYNASTY (206 BC – 220 AD) HORSE HEAD

A HAN DYNASTY (206 BC – 220 AD) HORSE HEAD

An Ancient Chinese moulded terracotta statuette depicting a horse’s head dating to the Han Period (206 BC – 220 AD). The head would have been originally part of a complete horse, modelled in sections. The horse is presented in an extremely naturalistic stance, with its mouth slightly agape, and details of facial muscles finely rendered. In Ancient China, terracotta statuettes of animals and human figures, were known as mingqi. Horses are one of the most powerful symbols in Chinese folklore, being linked to the pure male strength, known as Yang. Horses were also symbol of speed, perseverance, imagination and youthful energy, and they appear to be the most represented subject in the art of imperial China. During the Han Dynasty especially, horses were treated with great esteem, being considered as the foundation of Chinese military power and an important resource for the Chinese state.

HEIGHT 6 1/2 in

Condition: In overall good condition, with minor surface wear consistent with age. With a small chip at the base of around 1 cm.

Museum Comparison: Compare a closely related horse head in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET), New York, accession no.
26.292.45. https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/51077

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A HAN DYNASTY (206 BC - 220 AD) HORSE HEAD

An Ancient Chinese moulded terracotta statuette depicting a horse’s head dating to the Han Period (206 BC - 220 AD). The head would have been originally part of a complete horse, modelled in sections. The horse is presented in an extremely naturalistic stance, with its mouth slightly agape, and details of facial muscles finely rendered. In Ancient China, terracotta statuettes of animals and human figures, were known as mingqi. Horses are one of the most powerful symbols in Chinese folklore, being linked to the pure male strength, known as Yang. Horses were also symbol of speed, perseverance, imagination and youthful energy, and they appear to be the most represented subject in the art of imperial China. During the Han Dynasty especially, horses were treated with great esteem, being considered as the foundation of Chinese military power and an important resource for the Chinese state.

HEIGHT 6 1/2 in

Condition: In overall good condition, with minor surface wear consistent with age. With a small chip at the base of around 1 cm.

Museum Comparison: Compare a closely related horse head in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET), New York, accession no.
26.292.45. https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/51077

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